Malawi: youth sports events to end child marriage!

In Malawi, two different community organisations worked through sport with children and young people to raise awareness of the negative impacts of child marriage.

In Lilongwe, the Centre for Children in Distress held a pledging session during a sports event for 86 girls and boys. The Centre for Children in Distress is a local organisation working with women and vulnerable children, aiming to eradicate poverty in Malawi to ensure every child grows up in a safe environment and with a sustainable future.

"Together, we can create a world where every girl has the opportunity to thrive, free from the shackles of child marriage."

Fortson Hauya, Football Coach and Ulalo Youth Club treasurer.

In Liwonde, more than 300 enthusiastic participants gathered at Liwonde Community School, Machinga district, to join forces against child marriage (main image). Organised by Ulalo Youth Club, the event featured a thrilling friendly football match and a netball game, bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds to raise awareness about this critical issue. Beyond the excitement of the games, the event served as a powerful platform to raise awareness about the scourge of child marriage and its devastating impact on young girls and communities. Participants and spectators alike were treated to informative displays, engaging discussions, and inspiring testimonials from survivors of child marriage.

In Malawi, 38% of young women were married as girls. Community organisations working directly with children, like the Centre for Children in Distress and Ulalo Youth Club, can have an enormous impact on ending child marriage.